The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is one of the world's finest, its Kuroshio Sea tank holding three whale sharks and manta rays in a 7,500-cubic-metre aquarium viewed through an acrylic panel 8.2 metres high — the second-largest in the world. The aquarium is part of the Ocean Expo Park in Motobu and includes a dolphin show, sea turtle pool, and the remarkable Coral Sea exhibit of living coral. Hotels near Churaumi Aquarium in the Motobu area are in northern Okinawa's most scenic resort area.
Our Picks — Okinawa
Nago — Busena Cape
Often cited as the finest resort in Okinawa, Busena Terrace occupies a dramatic headland in central Okinawa with two-sided sea views, a sprawling pool complex, and direct access to one of the island's best beaches. The level of Japanese hospitality — omotenashi at its most refined — combined with the tropical setting makes it a benchmark experience.
Nakagusuku Bay — Yomitan
Transported from its famous Hawaii home to the shores of Nakagusuku Bay, Halekulani Okinawa delivers the original's legendary hospitality in a setting of rice paddies, ancient Ryukyuan gusuku castle ruins, and a seven-pool aqua terrace descending to the sea. The restaurant offers the most accomplished fusion of Ryukyuan and Continental cuisine on the island.
Manza — Onna Village
Occupying the Manza headland, one of Okinawa's most scenic promontories, this resort offers water sports, glass-bottom boat tours of the coral reef just offshore, and rooms that look out across the East China Sea toward an unbroken horizon. The traditional Okinawan cuisine in the evenings is excellent.
Tancha Bay — Onna
A family-friendly resort on the beautiful Tancha Bay with an extensive water park, multiple pools, and one of the island's longest private beach stretches. The resort runs Okinawan cultural programmes — traditional dance, dyeing, and awamori tasting — making it an educational as well as recreational destination.
Naha — Makishi
The top urban hotel in Naha, the Hyatt Regency puts guests within walking distance of Kokusai Street, the Makishi public market, and Shuri Castle. The rooftop pool with city and harbor views is one of the best in the capital, and the restaurant serves a spectacular Okinawan set menu that covers the full breadth of the archipelago's ingredients.
Chatan — American Village
Located in the lively American Village district of Chatan, Vessel Hotel offers a unique Okinawa experience where the island's complex American military legacy is expressed in eclectic retail, restaurants, and nightlife on its doorstep. The ocean-facing rooms are particularly good, and the rooftop pool is open late.
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